A year ago last week I decided it was time to become part of what was then a budding conservative movement online. I chose the name Roaring Republican because, frankly, I started this journey almost equally upset with the morally bankrupt and irresponsible Republican Party as I was with the Democrat Party. No pulled punches, no limits, no apologies, I was going to share my beliefs about the world and what was happening in our nation.
I have somewhat neglected this blog, finding a great deal of support on Twitter and an amazing vehicle for expression. There were many times over the last year when I would sit down, start typing an extended blog post, and find myself overwhelmed. So much has happened in our nation in such a short period of time, much of it bad. There were many moments I did not know where to begin.
I also went through a year of major trial. Like millions of Americans, I was laid off. Like millions of Americans, I dealt with the death of loved ones. Like millions of Americans I struggled with personal, emotional and physical hardship. Like millions of Americans too, I am prevailing. Back at work for some time, working hard to build closer ties with family and friends, I have accepting struggle as the challenge of life that leads to reward. I have attempted to make myself a better person, as I push hard against the gravity of the difficulties we all seem to face in our lives, regardless of our differences.
In this time, I decided to rededicate myself to this blog and to share more with those who visit this space. It is a difficult process to expose oneself to ridicule but I have learned over the years through blogging, twittering and other online activities that the rewards can be magnificent. I knew months ago I would reach a moment when I would write in a longer form again, I also knew I would have to wait until the time was right.
I believe that time is now.
I thank all the friends I have met in the last year and I am astonished at how many likeminded people are “out there” floating around cyberspace. Conservatives are connecting in ways that seemed impossible in 2008 and before. We have found voice, vehicle and fuel, now is the fun part where we begin to drive and share.
To the year gone by, the year to come and what will hopefully be a bright and shining future.
